Mirador del Rio

Mirador del Rio

In the North of Lanzarote, not far from the town of Ye, lies Mirador del Rio. Meaning "View Of The River". This stunning panoramic viewpoint was designed by the late local architect, Cesar Manrique.

This 474 meter high clifftop viewpoint is barely noticeable from the outside, as it has been built into the cliffs in a way that preserves Lanzarote's natural rocky landscape.

In the 16th century, Mirador del Rio was used not for tourism, but as a look out for the Canarians to protect themselves from pirate invasions. Now, the bond-style cafe and bar is a popular tourist attraction, which boasts panoramic views across the Atlantic ocean, and over the the unique sandy island of La Graciosa.

On first inspection the building is well hidden from the outside as it's covered in stones to camouflage it with the surrounding environment. Once through the entrance you make your way down the corridor into the main room with panoramic views over the sea and neighbouring islands of La Graciosa, Montaña Clara, Roque del Oeste and in the distance you can just about make out Alegranza on a clear day.

The narrow sea strip that separates Lanzarote from the neighbouring Archipelago is called "El Río". If you step out onto the "balcony" of the attraction you will also witness spectacular views over the Famara Cliff and the "Salinas del Río", the oldest salt mines of the Island.

There is also a gift shop at the attraction, selling local goods and Cesar Manrique inspired handy-crafts.

Entrance the Mirador del Rio is €4.50 for adults, and €2.25 for children aged between 7 and 12. Residents can gain entrance for just €3.60 for an adult and €1.80 for a child. The attraction is open daily from 10:00 until 17:45 (18:45 in the summer months) and the recommended length of stay here is 1 hour.